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Mauna Kea Sunset, Big Island

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From the summit area of Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawaii, it is possible to see the sunset with sufficient advance planning. The altitude, difficult driving conditions, and unpredictable weather make a sunrise trip almost impossible, but in the summer you can drive up to the top in the late afternoon with an appropriate 4x4 vehicle (only one rental company allows you to do this). You should not arrive too early, however, because altitude sickness is a real threat here. Consult a doctor before attempting to ascend the 13,000+ feet to the mountaintop. The sunsets here can be spectacular: Haleakala on Maui is visible in the distance, and the light reflecting off the observatory towers creates a stunning effect.